Frequently Asked Questions

I am looking for a designer but I don’t know any of you people. Can you tell me a little bit about yourself so I can get an idea of what kind of person you are?

Sure! I’ve always been an artist, but my formal degree is in Advertising Design and Illustration. I’ve done a lot of work both in the print industry, (where I learned the value of a production-oriented work ethic) and in the corporate world. (Where I learned I’d rather be a freelancer.) Working for myself allows me to take on a huge variety of work, and gives me the chance to constantly meet new people, and learn new things about their businesses and the way they do things. This is probably the most rewarding aspect of my job, and I’d recommend it to anyone.

Personally, I enjoy spending time with my husband, creating artwork, playing computer games, and cooking. I also enjoy learning how to make things, teaching, doting on my animals, and dreaming of cultivating a green thumb… and I seem to have a passion for spending too much time on the computer.

How long have you been in business?

I have been providing design services professionally as a full-time freelancer for 17 years.

Do you have an office space, or are you home-based?

I maintain a formal office space in my home… so both! Seriously though, I am always on time to work and the lower overhead helps me maintain competitive pricing, both of which benefit you.

How many people work in your office?

My husband and I both work from home in our own offices. Separate is better when it comes to music and work.

I also have other freelancers I partner with for jobs when needed. So, if we need to pull in a writer, programmer, or other marketing person, I have you covered.

What’s your specialty?

No two clients are alike, and no two projects are identical. I decided long ago that if I was going to have a specialty, it needed to be listening to people. I may have the experience in this job, but you are the only person who really knows what you want. No matter how good I am at building websites or designing a brochure, without knowing what you need, I may as well be painting blindfolded.

How much does it cost?

Obviously, this depends on the work needed. Shoot me an email or give me a call to discuss your project. Once I have a clear understanding of your requirements, I can produce a quote for you with all the details and pricing for you to make an informed decision. If you are looking for a new web design, you can fill out my Website Discovery Form. At the end, there is a pricing calculator that will give you some idea of costs.

How long will it take to complete my project?

Turnaround time can be estimated by your project type, work involved, and current work schedule. Average projects take anywhere between 5 and 14 business days.

What is your work process? What am I going to be expected to do?

Who will I work with on this project? Who does the actual design work?

Me and me. The only exception to this is if the project demands we bring in some additional help (writers, marketing, additional programming, etc). If that happens, we will discuss it and I will give you my recommendations. I have plenty of people I work with regularly, and have been thoroughly vetted by me personally.

What’s included with my project?

Most projects include consultation, design, and press-ready files or final web-ready files. Eventually there may even be cookies.

What do I need to provide?

This is up to you. I can help with all aspects of your project, or you can provide portions of it, such as writing, or logos. This would be addressed during the quote stage so that everyone will have a clear idea of what is required at the outset of the project.

What if I’m not happy with the design?

Talk to me so we can discuss your concerns and come up with a great solution.

Who owns the design once it’s finished and paid for?

You do, that’s what you’re paying for! Exceptions to this would be uncommon and would be discussed before work starts.

Will you use my work on your website as a sample?

Its very possible I could use your work in my gallery or news area. However, I try to always give the name of your company and a linkback if possible. I would not post anything that I considered sensitive or I would ask first. However, if you have concerns about me posting some of your work, please let me know. If you would rather it not be posted, I’m happy to respect your wishes.

What happens if you go out of business or get hit by a bus?

I would be very, very sad. Or dead.

Seriously, I think what you are really asking is, “What will happen to my files if you go out of business?” I keep meticulous files, backups, and disks of your projects. You are free to request final files of your projects at any time. Regardless of actual circumstance, I would still have copies of your files and you are welcome to request them.

If I’m dead my husband has agreed to check my messages and give you copies of your files right after he has come out of his drunken, grieving stupor.

You host my website. What happens to my websites if you go out of business?

If for some reason I decided to stop offering web hosting, I would sell my accounts to a trusted 3rd party and alert everyone ahead of time so they would know I wasn’t handling them any more.

Can you send me some samples?

Will you show me a few of your ideas for my project so I can get a feel for your work?

I’m sorry, but I don’t do work on speculation, but you can go look at my portfolio and see plenty of samples of previous work.

Why should I hire you for the job?

You should hire me only if you think I’m a good fit for you. I strive to be a good listener, understand your needs and wants, give you my professional opinion, and create something you are going to love… and a final great reason to hire me; I will actually return your phone call!

What people are saying...

Interested in working with Lena? Check out some of her client testimonials below!

Lena Shore has done a wonderful job for us – from brochures to business cards to the development of logos. She is prompt and professional and has a beautiful eye for art and the needs of the individual client.

Mobile Veterinarian

Working with Lena has revolutionized how I feel about computers and the internet as a whole. Not only did she update me on current technology, but she did it with professionalism, style, grace, and charm. The website she built for me is amazing and working with her was even more amazing. When I was confused and frustrated with “computer stuff” she guided me through my confusion with patience, professionalism, sympathy and a good laugh.

Lullabooks

Lena has a rare combination of reliable work habits and creative talent. With designers, you usually have to trade one for the other, but Lena allows me to please my clients with great work, delivered on time. She has been an essential part of my own business success.